Athletics and Recreation Turf Manager

Athletics and Recreation Turf Manager

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Position Title: Athletics and Recreation Turf Manager

Job Category: University Staff

Employment Type: Regular

Job Profile: Groundskeeper Lead

Job Duties: POSITION SUMMARY: This position plays a vital role in supporting the success of the University of Wisconsin River Falls Athletics & Recreation Department, including championship-level programs. The Athletics & Recreation Turf Manager is responsible for the overall management, preparation, and performance of athletic fields and outdoor recreation spaces to ensure a safe, high-quality, and game-ready environment for varsity athletics, intramurals, and campus events.

This role directly impacts the student-athlete experience, competitive success, and external perception of UWRF Athletics. Responsibilities include advanced planning and execution of field preparation for practices and competitions, including NCAA-level events, as well as leadership of grounds operations aligned with athletic schedules and seasonal demands.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage day-to-day operations of athletic field and outdoor recreation surface maintenance, ensuring competition-ready conditions for all varsity and recreational activities
• Develop and execute field preparation plans aligned with athletic schedules, including game-day setup (field lining, painting, logos, branding elements) and post-event recovery
• Coordinate and supervise staff, including scheduling, task delegation, and training, to support efficient and high-quality operations
• Monitor turf health and field conditions; implement proactive maintenance strategies including fertilization, aeration, irrigation, pest control, and seasonal transitions
• Oversee snow removal and weather-related response to ensure fields, facilities, and event access points remain safe and operational
• Collaborate with Athletics & Recreation staff, coaches, and event management personnel to meet sport-specific needs and enhance the game-day environment
• Assist in planning and implementing turf and landscape improvement projects that enhance functionality, safety, and aesthetics of athletic and recreation spaces
• Maintain surrounding grounds including walkways, roadways, and spectator areas to ensure a clean, safe, and welcoming environment for participants and fans
• Research, evaluate, and implement new turf management techniques, materials, and equipment to improve efficiency and field performance

Key Job Responsibilities:

• Installs, propagates, and maintains the health of new and existing plants and landscape using a variety of vehicles and equipment
• Plans and directs the day-to-day operational activities of various lawn and landscape projects and staff
• Schedules and monitors staff and assists with basic training
• Identifies and acts to remedy plant diseases and insect damage
• Assists with organizing the layout of planting sites, plant and material selection, research and evaluate new materials and equipment
• Maintains clean and clear lawns, walkways, roadways, and parking lots to ensure they are free of debris, litter, snow, and ice

Department:

• Facilities - Grounds

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES: Required Qualifications:

• Ability to independently manage and prioritize work in a dynamic, event-driven environment with minimal supervision
• Demonstrated ability to support operations tied to scheduled events, including flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and respond to weather-related needs
• Ability to obtain and maintain a valid driver’s license meeting Wisconsin standards for University vehicle operation
• Possess or obtain a Wisconsin Commercial Pesticide Applicator’s License (Ornamental & Turf) within 6 months of hire
• Possess or obtain forklift and aerial lift certifications
• Strong working knowledge of turf management practices, equipment operation, and safety procedures (or ability to quickly develop)
• Ability to communicate and collaborate effectively with athletics staff, coaches, and campus partners
• Physical ability to perform essential duties including lifting (50 lbs), bending, kneeling, climbing, and working in varying weather conditions
• Ability to maintain records, operate computer systems, and utilize software related to scheduling, maintenance tracking, and reporting
• Must complete and successfully pass post-offer employment test.